Top quad bikers and beach motorcross riders head for Margate this weekend for the curtain-raiser for the 2014 season.

The challenge is as fierce as ever with competitors from around the UK, France and Belgium getting ready to tackle one of the toughest beach courses they will face during the nine-month campaign.

Race director for the Quad Racing Association Tony Nash said: “Everyone is ready and raring to go.

Margate is always a challenging course when I design the circuit and this year I have a completely blank canvass to work on.

There will be lots of twists and turns and jumps. Riders will have to be on their mettle.”

Thousands of spectators are expected to line the promenade vantage point between the Nayland Rock and the clocktower during Saturday and Sunday (March 8 and 9)for the tenth annual Monarch of the Beach challenge which features youth and adult races across the two days.

The weekend is a stand alone event but also doubles up as rounds one and two of the MCF QRA British Beach Cross Championship.

Mr Nash added: “After disastrous weather in recent weeks the forecast looks bright and dry which is perfect for racers and spectators.”

He thanked event partners Ovenden Plant Hire, Thanet council, Cafe G, Margate Handbook, Mad Van Sales, and The Brake House.